Childhood illnesses seen
Strep Throat is an infection caused by streptococcus bacteria. People with
strep throat usually have a very red, painful throat, often with fever, and
sometimes with headache, abdominal pain, and nausea and/or vomiting. MOST
sore throats, however, are caused by viruses and are NOT TREATED WITH
ANTIBIOTICS.
Strep throat is spread person-to-person through secretions. Diagnosis is
made through a throat culture. Strep infections are usually treated with an
oral anitibiotic. Children may return to school after taking medicine for at
least 24 hours and their fever is gone.
Fifth Disease is a mild rash illness that usually affects children. It is
caused by a Parvovirus B19 that lives in the nose and throat and can be
spread from person to person.
The first stage of illness consists of headache, body ache, sore throat, low-
grade fever, and chills. These symptoms last about 2-3 days and are followed
by a second stage, lasting about a week, during which the person has no
symptoms at all. Individuals are most infectious before the beginning of
their symptoms. In children, the 3rd stage involves a bright red rash on the
cheeks, which gives a slapped cheek appearance. The rash may appear on and
off for several weeks with changes in temperature, sunlight, and emotional
stress. Adults may develop the third-stage rash but may experience joint
pain, particularly in the hands and feet. The disease is usually mild,and
both children and adults recover without problems.
There is no specific treatment for it. It is diagnosed by clinical symptoms
of the facial rash.
If you are pregnant or have a blood disorder or weakened immune system, tell
you health care provider about your possible exposure.